Day 1: Beijing
Arrive in Beijing. Transfer to hotel, & enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 2: Beijing
Visit one of the greatest famed structures in the world, The Great Wall of China. Enjoy a cable car ride up to the Mutianyu section of the wall & discover the amazing scenery of the surrounding mountains. Afterward, experience a thrilling return to the valley on the toboggan sled. This afternoon, walk down the Sacred Way, “the path that leads to heaven,” which features impressive stone statues of animals & mythical creatures, & enter the Ming Tombs complex, the final resting place for thirteen Ming Dynasty emperors. Highlights of the complex include the Dingling Underground Palace & the Great Red Gate, China’s largest stone archway, dating back to the 16th century.
Day 3: Beijing
Explore Tian’anmen Square, one of the world’s largest public squares, located in the center of Beijing, & enter the Forbidden City, an ancient palace of Ming & Qing Dynasty emperors. Dating back to the 15th century, the imperial complex features close to 1,000 buildings, including the Palace Museum. Next, visit the Temple of Heaven, & learn about the ceremonial traditions of the two dynasties. This evening, enjoy one of Beijing’s most popular dishes at a local restaurant, the roast duck.
Day 4: Beijing – Shanghai
Travel to the city of Shanghai, situated next to Asia’s longest river, the Yangtze. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Relax, visit one of the city’s unique tea houses, or browse the latest fashions on a stroll down Nanjing Road.
Day 5: Shanghai
This morning, visit the Jade Buddha Temple. This presently active monastery, which dates back to the late 19th century, features two famous jade statues of Buddha & invites guests to discover Chinese history & modern culture. Before lunch, enjoy time to explore the local shops of Tianzifang, located in Shanghai’s charming French Concession area. This afternoon, enjoy a sight-seeing tour of the city. Modern architectural highlights include the Jinmao Tower & the Oriental Pearl Tower, standing at an amazing 468 meters high.
Day 6: Shanghai
Discover the peaceful Yuyuan Garden, a classical Chinese garden famous for its exquisite jade rock. Tour the Shanghai Museum, which features ancient Chinese ceramics, jade, sculptures, furniture, & more. Capture the essence of Shanghai’s history & culture on a walk down the Bund, located alongside the Huangpu River. This row of banks features a mile-long display of historic buildings, numerous styles of architecture, & amazing views of the city. Tonight, enjoy a Chinese acrobatics performance.
Day 7: Shanghai – U.S.
Transfer to the airport, & board return flight home.